The familiar glow of the Ethereal Interface greeted me as soon as I opened my eyes. Text scrolled across the display, a gratifying reminder of my recent victory.
[System Notice]
Objective Completed: Become a Lieutenant.
Reward Granted:
* Skill: Conqueror's Haki
I smirked, leaning back in my chair. "Not a bad haul."
The system vanished just as Nanao walked in, carrying what seemed like the weight of the Soul Society in paperwork.
"Lieutenant, here's the next stack of documents that need your review," Nanao said, setting the towering pile on my desk.
I gave her a wide-eyed look. "You sure this isn't for Captain Kyōraku?"
"I'm sure," she replied sharply, adjusting her glasses. "And I expect you to finish them today."
"Well," I said, stretching dramatically, "looks like I've got my work cut out for me."
I waited until she turned her back before activating Flash Step, vanishing from the office in an instant.
I found a peaceful spot under a cherry blossom tree in the Eighth Division's garden, reclining against the trunk with my arms behind my head. The scent of blooming flowers and the gentle rustle of leaves made it the perfect place to relax—or, as others would call it, avoid responsibility.
The sound of approaching footsteps made me crack one eye open.
"Lieutenant," Nanao's voice rang out sharply, "you have work to do."
"Work can wait," I replied, waving her off lazily. "Cherry blossoms only bloom for so long."
"Your're impossible," she muttered, storming off.
My peace was soon interrupted by another visitor. Rukia marched up to me, a scroll in her hand and an annoyed look on her face.
"Rukia," I greeted with a grin. "What brings you to my little corner of paradise?"
"Message from Captain Ukitake," she said curtly, shoving the scroll toward me.
I took it but didn't let go, causing her to glare at me. "Are you sure you're not here because you missed me?"
Her face turned crimson. "Don't flatter yourself! You're the most annoying person I've ever met!"
"Annoying, huh?" I said, leaning in slightly. "But still charming, right?"
She yanked the scroll free and turned on her heel. "I don't know why I bother with you!"
"Because I'm unforgettable," I called after her, laughing as she stomped away.
Later that night, restless energy led to wander through the divisions. The quiet hum of activity in the Seireitei was a stark contrast to the daytime bustle. I passed barracks, training rounds, and patrols until I stumbled upon the Thirteenth Division's training area.
There, under the moonlight, was Rukia. She moved through her forms with precision, her blade catting through the air in graceful arcs.
"Practicing late, huh?" I called out, stepping into view.
She froze, startled, before lowering her sword and glaring at me. "What are you doing here?"
I shrugged, flashing a teasing smile. "Maybe I came to see you."
Her cheeks reddened slightly. "Stop saying ridiculous things!"
"I'm serious," I said, my tone playful. "How about a spar? Let's see if you've improved since last time."
She hesitated, then raised her sword. "Fine. But don't think I'll go easy on yo!"
We began with a simple exchange of blows, her strikes fast and precise. I dodged and parried effortlessly, my grin never fading.
"Is that all you've got, Rukia?" I taunted, side-stepped another slash.
"Stop underestimating me!" she shouted, quickening her attacks.
I dodge again, stepping just out of reach. "I'm not underestimating you. I'm just having fun."
Her frustration was palpable. With a determined cry, she lunged at me, her blade aimed for my shoulder. I sidestepped, and as she twisted to recover, her foot caught on an uneven patch of ground.
She stumbled forward. and I reached out as if to catch her, then let an idea spark. Pretending to lose my balance, I fell backward, pulling her down with me.
The next moment, she was on top of me, her hands braced against my chest, her face inches from mine.
"Careful, Rukia," I said, smirking. "People might get the wrong idea."
Her eyes widened, and her face turned scarlet as she scrambled to her feet. "You—! I—! That was your fault!"
I stood, brushing myself off. "Was it? Or Was it fate?"
"Stop talking nonsense!" she snapped, flustered. "I'm done for the night."
As she stormed off, I couldn't help but chuckle. Teasing her was too much fun.
...
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